Klinsmann hailed the remarkable atmosphere which included praise for his side's work from U.S. President Barack Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

"The World Cup was a gigantic success. Yes, we would have wished to go even further, but it was really close against Belgium," he said. "Nobody had expected us to advance to the knockout stages from that group of death.

"We did it -- and sparked an unbelievable euphoria. The viewing figures went into record numbers, and there were public screenings the U.S. had not witnessed before.

"Vice president Joe Biden was in the dressing room after the Ghana match. And Barack Obama called after our defeat against Belgium. I got Tim Howard and Clint Dempsey to answer the call, and they were super proud.

"Even Angela Merkel sent me a text message after every match. Of course, she crossed her fingers for Germany. But -- without asking her -- I'd say that the United States have been her second team."

Klinsmann, who led Germany to the 2006 World Cup semifinals before standing aside, also said their current success was nothing to do with him.

"All credit has to go to Joachim Low and his colleagues - from [team manager] Oliver Bierhoff to the players, the staff, the association and also the Bundesliga. They can toast it on Sunday," he said.

"I will be watching the final at home, with my family. We will keep our fingers crossed. Most of the U.S. is also behind Germany. The team is admired for the style in which they made it to the final. Most of all for the 7-1."